A man has admitted robbing shop staff at knifepoint - and repeatedly apologising as he did.

Jordan Soutar pleaded guilty to assaulting two employees by presenting a knife at them, demanding money and robbing them of £180.

The 27-year-old appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court on October 1 where he admitted the offence from April 29 last year.

His not-guilty plea to possession of a knife was accepted by the Crown.

The court was told the employees started their shift at the Scotmid Co-op in Tullichewan Drive, Alexandria, at 6am.

At 7am, they saw Soutar, of George Street, Bonhill, standing outside. They led him in and he immediately went to the till.

He said, "I'm really sorry about this" and presented a small kitchen knife.

The shop staff member stepped back. The fiscal depute told the court Soutar was known to him as local.

"Are you sure you want to do that?" asked the worker. "I know who you are."

Again the man apologised: "I'm sorry but I need it."

The employee put money on the counter and Soutar left, apologising again.

Staff pressed the panic button and police arrived. The entire incident was captured on CCTV.

The till was down £189.59 but staff had only given notes, leading to the conclusion the man robbed the shop of £180.

When Soutar was interviewed by police, he described mental health issues and addictions to heroin and street valium.

The court was told he had no previous convictions.

Sheriff Maxwell Hendry deferred sentencing until November 5 for reports to be prepared.

He said: "You pleaded guilty to a serious offence. I want to know as much about you as I can. I will take all matters into account."